Product Description

This Reed is now in excellent shape, and would be a perfect size vise for a hobby bench. I just love these Reeds and this one is the flat nose model that everyone wants.

The custom made serrated jaws are not original. When I started restoring this vise I saw the jaws were not in good condition, plus they were cast into the vise. I set the vise up in my CNC milling machine and removed the old hard face jaws and created a ledge to support fresh jaws during work. I copied the Starrett design. I will supply a drawing in case these jaws ever need replaced, or you want a smooth set down the road. Can't buy these at Walmart. The original cast in jaws were very hard like the ones I added. The new jaws are A2 toolsteel heat treated to 54/56 Rockwell with precision ground backs for a flat accurate fit. These fresh jaw faces are now very hard and perpendicular.

I then focused on making new handles and a made the 1-1/8 round knob ends. The handles are made from 1144 cold formed CRS, which is practically unbend-able. It's the best material for handles, in my opinion. The spindle handle is 1/2 inch diameter. I hand made the handle knobs, peened them in place for a permanent installation, and then added a set of bumpers.

Next, I built a 1-3/4 x .145 aluminum Bronze washer to move back the spindle handle from the vise. It was to close. Reed has a split nut that when adjusted will set the backlash to 12 to 2 o'clock handle movement. Aluminum bronze is the best material for wear and a perfect choice for a washer. It just does not wear out. You can see it in a picture I provided during assembly.

I adjusted the set screw that holds the nut in place to just about no wiggle room. See the picture, you may adjust the backlash a little looser if you choose.

Painted with Krylon Satan Oxford Blue. This Reed 103 R is now ready for years of good service.

Shipping will be through UPS. I am estimating around $50 on this vise. I can get a better quote once I have the new owners address.